Legendary taiko drummer Kenny Endo celebrates 40 years of touring and performing his unique instrumental rhythms held together by Japanese, Western, and Afro-Cuban influences Wednesday at Kahilu Theatre.
Legendary taiko drummer Kenny Endo celebrates 40 years of touring and performing his unique instrumental rhythms held together by Japanese, Western, and Afro-Cuban influences Wednesday at Kahilu Theatre.
Endo is one of the leading artists in contemporary percussion and rhythm. He is in the vanguard of the taiko genre, continuing to pave new paths in this Japanese-style drumming. A performer, composer and teacher of taiko with numerous awards and accolades, Endo is a consummate artist, blending Japanese taiko with rhythms influenced from around the world into original melodies and improvisation.
In the greater musical world, “Kenny Endo” has become synonymous with “taiko.” He is arguably one of the most versatile musicians in the genre, crossing easily between the classical Japanese style and his own neo-classical, globally inspired variety.
Endo has recorded multiple CDs of original taiko compositions, and was a featured artist on the PBS special “Spirit of Taiko.” He has performed for Michael Jackson, Prince, as well as Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana. He opened for The Who, performed a duet with singer Bobby McFerrin, and is featured on various soundtracks.
The taiko ensemble will also give a youth show at 10:30 a.m. Thursday. For more information about the youth show, contact Education Coordinator Lisa Shattuck at youth@kahilutheatre.org.
Kahilu Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. for the 7 p.m. show. Tickest range from $20 to $68 and can be purchased online at www.kahilutheatre.org, by calling 885-6868, or at the theater’s box office at 67-1186 Lindsey Road from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Info: www.kahilutheatre.org. ■